Mr Armstrong, in his opening speech at the association's executive council meeting held in Griffith htis week, said ill or non-informed policies were damaging representation for farmers.

"Our structure and the very democratic processes for representation are being pushed aside in favour of ill- or non-informed policy development," Mr Armstrong said.

"This is very dangerous for agriculture at a time when there are enormous pressures on us. More than ever before we have a necessity for serious and informed policy development and a united voice."

Mr Armstrong said governments need to recognise there is an atmosphere of discontent in the country and the approach of both state and federal elections was an important opportunity for farmers to gain commitment and support from all sides of politics.

"To have an impact requires us to continue building on an involvement from people of all walks of life. We have begun that with our Property Rights campaign, and we will continue in our efforts to reconnect with urban Australia," he said.

Local farmer and association council member John Ward said the meeting had got off to a good start.

"We're getting a very good view of the national issues," Mr Ward said.